Three farmers from Mullumbimby Farmers Market will join the line-up of guest speakers at Mullumbimby’s Renew Fest this weekend, where they will discuss organic farming, native bush foods and give a workshop on the gut healthy drink, kombucha.
Organic farming pioneers David Forrest and Sue Mangan, and leader in the native bush food industry, Rebecca Barnes, will be sharing their expertise during an hour-long workshop on Saturday morning.
David Forrest has run an organic farm at Federal with wife Sue for more than 30 years, helped set up Australia’s first organic farmers’ market at Lismore, and was instrumental in getting the country’s first TAFE-accredited organic farming course off the ground.
He’s been using, teaching and advocating organic principles for more than 30 years and has a wealth of knowledge to share.
His wife Sue Mangan – well known in the local community as a former high school teacher and now full-time farmer – will be giving workshop on the popular fermented drink, kombucha, including tastings and a demonstration on how to make it from scratch.
Rebecca Barnes will be giving a presentation on Bush Foods for the Urban Garden at this year’s Renew Fest
Meanwhile, native food producer, Rebecca Barnes, of Playing With Fire, will be giving a presentation entitled Grow your own Bushfoods – Native Food for the Urban Garden, and will have plants, fruits and leaves of various local native bush foods on display.
Mullumbimby Farmers Market manager Allie Godfrey said values of the farmers markets were closely aligned with those of Renew Fest and the markets were proud to be a part of this year’s event.
“Our mission is to support local farmers, strengthen local food security, encourage diversity and sustainable practices in food production, build community, and educate the community.
“We’re also passionate about educating and inspiring the farmers of the future through events like our annual Grow Your Own Lunchbox competition for local primary schools.”
pics: 1. Rebecca Barnes will be giving a presentation on Bush Foods for the Urban Garden at this year’s Renew Fest 2. Sue Mangan and Dave Forrest at home in their turmeric patch.
